The field of behaviour (change) theories, as part of evidence-informed health promotion, has scarcely been applied in end-of-life care (EoL care) research. Using a behaviour (change) theory makes it possible to identify factors which independently contribute to the explanation of a behaviour. It is important to know how intentions, and socio-demographic, cultural, psychological, social and other individual or environmental characteristics relate to EoL care and the mutual relationships. Knowledge of these factors that influence the behaviour of patients, informal caregivers and health care professionals regarding EoL care is highly informative to public health, particularly for the development of targeted interventions aimed at desired behavioural change in EoL care.

Aim

To respond to the above shortcomings, the innovative aim of this project is to examine the application and the utility of behaviour (change) theories in EoL care contexts. The goal of this study is to analyze behaviours in EoL care, as demonstrated by patients, informal caregivers, nurses and physicians and to gain information about the factors underlying these behaviours. We hope to provide a new developed health behaviour (change) model concerning EoL care behaviour of patients as central actors, as well as of the relevant environmental actors. Using reliable methodology, we hope to contribute to the development of future interventions aimed at the promotion of desired EoLc behaviours. This aim is divided over three studies.

Methods

(1) A systematic review will be conducted in order to appraise the potential use of health behaviour (change) theories, in which individual determinants of behaviour play an important role, within the research field around EoL care. (2) In addition, a qualitative study will be organized to identify relevant behaviour(s) in the context of quality EoL care and its associated factors. Given the sensitivity of the subject, individual interviews with patients will be chosen. Moreover, focus group discussions will take place with informal caregivers and health care providers (nurses and physicians).

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About us

The End-of-Life Care Research Group aims to conduct high-quality scientific research in end-of-life care in Belgium and Europe. The research group is spearheaded by a number of experienced researchers and strives to expand expertise in end-of-life care research.